6 Dec 2010

New Vanuatu PM seeks MSG talks on Fiji

4:18 pm on 6 December 2010

Vanuatu's new prime minister, Sato Kilman, says he'll consult with the Melanesian Spearhead Group to resolve the differences between Vanuatu and Fiji.

Mr Kilman became prime minister last week after Edward Natapei was toppled in a parliamentary vote.

Solomon Islands has been laying the groundwork for the MSG to patch its differences after Mr Natapei, in his role as chair, cancelled a summit in Fiji in July.

He said at the time it was against the values of the MSG for Fiji's Commodore Frank Bainimarama, as an unelected leader, to assume the chairmanship of the body.

But Mr Kilman says it's undeniable that Melanesian countries have to move forward.

He says a problem for one is a problem for all of the member countries.

Mr Kilman says there are also other problems the MSG is facing and that's why the issues with Fiji need to be resolved.

Meanwhile, Commodore Bainimarama has indicated he will not attend next week's planned meeting in Honiara.